Opposition political parties in Nigeria have closed ranks ahead of the 2027 general elections, declaring a unified resolve to field a single presidential candidate in a strategic move aimed at unseating the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
The resolution, encapsulated in what has been dubbed the “Ibadan Declaration,” was issued at the end of a National Summit of Opposition Political Parties held on Saturday in Ibadan, Oyo State.
In a strongly worded communiqué posted on social media, the parties accused the APC-led administration under Bola Tinubu of attempting to impose a one-party state on the country, warning that such a development poses a grave threat to Nigeria’s democracy and the future of over 200 million citizens.
The opposition coalition vowed to resist what it described as “anti-democratic machinations” by the ruling party, insisting that Nigeria’s multi-party democracy must be preserved at all costs.
Central to the Ibadan Declaration is the agreement by opposition parties to work towards presenting a consensus presidential candidate for the 2027 elections. According to the communiqué, the move is designed to consolidate opposition strength and provide Nigerians with a formidable alternative capable of “rescuing the nation and her long-suffering masses.”
Despite alleged political pressure and manoeuvres by the APC, the parties affirmed their determination to participate fully in the 2027 elections at all levels, dismissing any attempt to railroad the process in favour of the incumbent.
The summit also took a swipe at the leadership of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), calling for the removal of its chairman, Joash Ojo Amupitan, whom they accused of bias and partisanship. The opposition parties argued that public confidence in the electoral umpire has been eroded, warning that his continued stay in office could trigger widespread unrest.
In addition, the coalition called on the National Assembly to urgently review the Electoral Act 2026, particularly provisions they claim undermine electoral integrity and contradict constitutional principles.
The parties further condemned what they described as the harassment and detention of opposition figures on bailable offences, demanding their immediate release to ensure inclusivity and full political participation.
Raising concerns over recently released electoral guidelines, the opposition described them as restrictive and deliberately skewed against their operations. They consequently demanded an extension of the deadline for party primaries to the end of July 2026.
